We’ve heard it again and again…breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Studies affirm that kids and teens who eat breakfast have more energy, do better in school, and eat healthier throughout the day. The same can be said for adults as we fuel up for our workdays. How to be the most productive and maintain our energy? Start with a nutritious breakfast. Easy to say. But, sometimes I need a little breakfast inspiration.
During the week, breakfast at the Radi house is a free-for-all; everybody making their own. That is the joy of having teenagers and not toddlers. I don’t need to be in the kitchen cooking before I’ve even downed my first cup of coffee. Depending on the day, breakfast can be anything from oatmeal to cold cereal or a quick smoothie and some Sunbutter on toast. Some weeks I’ll pre-cook quinoa or steel cut oats and place in individual microwave-safe glass containers, so we can just pull one from the fridge and zap it in the microwave to reheat and eat. We’re all about dining efficiency on those busy weekday mornings.
Weekends are another story. We try to slow down a bit and make time for a hot and hearty breakfast at least once over the weekend. Sometimes we make savory omelets or puffy dutch pancakes topped with fresh fruit. During the colder months, we enjoy Blueberry Breakfast Quinoa. We even assemble our own dressed-up version of Egg McMuffin’s using whole wheat english muffins, leftover ham, eggs, and extra-sharp cheddar. But, the number one most requested breakfast food at the Radi house has to be banana pancakes. I came up with this recipe when the girls were toddlers and we’ve been making them ever since.
The dry ingredients can be mixed ahead of time for convenience—think homemade Bisquick. In the summer, we’ll double the batch and place in mason jars to travel to our cabin. With oil and vanilla already in our cabin pantry, all we have to pack are bananas, eggs, milk and our favorite fruits for toppings. Easy and delicious!
I’ve also given this mix-in-a-jar as a hostess gift. Just place the mix and a printed up recipe card along with some bananas, berries, and chocolate chips or maple syrup in a basket (or mixing bowl) for a simple gift to share. I hope this blog inspires you to make time to enjoy breakfast with your kids. Please try the recipe and let me know what you think. I’d love to hear what you chose for creative toppings.
Healthy regards,
Kelly